McLaren Artura Spider debuts with 690 hp, slick retractable roof

The all-new McLaren Artura Spider officially debuts, and it’s the British sportscar maker’s first-ever high-performance hybrid convertible.

2024 McLaren Artura Spider

Based on the McLaren Artura coupe, it promises the same level of performance and agility albeit, it gets some unique improvements that make it a stand-out competitor in the convertible supercar market. 

First off, it uses a 3.0-liter V6 engine combined with an electric motor. Together, it can put out 690 horsepower and 722 Nm of torque. This results in a potent power-to-weight ratio of 473 hp per tonne. For reference, the Artura Spider only weighs 1,456 kg which is 358 kg lighter than the Aston Martin DB12 Volante - one of its direct competitors. 

Like the Artura coupe, the Artura Spider gets scissor doors

The Artura Spider likewise touts a near-perfect 50:50 weight balance distribution thanks to its mid-mounted engine that works in tandem with its carbon fiber tub and chassis. This explains its lightness. In the same vein, McLaren likewise credits the said material for the Artura Spider’s rigidity.

Due to its peppy powertrain and lightweight body, McLaren claims that the Artura Spider can do zero to 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds. That goes on top of the fact that it is a true hybrid with a claimed electric-only range of 34 kilometers, as well as an estimated gasoline fuel economy of 8 km/l. 

This McLaren gets a power-retractable hard top but it doesn't compromise on performance

Other mechanical improvements on the McLaren Artura Spider include an upgraded close-ratio eight-speed gearbox, carbon ceramic disc brakes, new engine mounts for rigidity, revised damper valving for better handling and comfort, an upgraded valved exhaust system, as well as a set of enhanced Pirelli tires that boast noise-canceling systems. 

On the outside, this all-new McLaren convertible largely gets the same smooth but sporty design beats as the coupe version. It bears the car brand's signature LED headlamp cluster design and the Artura’s familiar aerodynamic wedge-like outline. 

Artura Spider's cockpit

Being a convertible, however, it gets a retractable hard top that can be deployed or folded down in just 11 seconds. As per McLaren, the movable top piece doesn’t affect the rigidity of the car, but note that the Artura Spider is 61 kg heavier than the Artura coupe. 

So, what do you think of the 2024 McLaren Artura Spider? And since McLarens are sold locally via DBPhils Motorsports, will this new hybrid find its way to our roads as well? 

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